The BMW 6 Series (E63) 650i Steptronic, produced from 2005 to 2007, represented the high-performance variant of the first generation (E63) 6 Series coupe. Positioned as the flagship model, it offered a significant step up in power and luxury compared to the 630i. The E63 generation, built on the BMW 7 Series (E65) platform, aimed to revive the Gran Turismo coupe tradition for BMW, blending sporting dynamics with sophisticated comfort. The 650i, with its naturally aspirated V8 engine and automatic transmission, was primarily targeted at buyers seeking a refined and powerful grand tourer experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 6 Series |
| Generation | 6 Series (E63) |
| Type (Engine) | 650i (367 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.3 l/100 km (14.4 US mpg, 17.3 UK mpg, 6.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.1 l/100 km (21.2 US mpg, 25.4 UK mpg, 9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.5 kg/Hp, 223.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm, 297.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 367 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 490 Nm @ 3400 rpm (361.41 lb.-ft. @ 3400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N62B48 |
| Engine displacement | 4799 cm3 (292.85 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.2 l (15 US qt | 12.49 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1645 kg (3626.6 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2095 kg (4618.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4820 mm (189.76 in.) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Height | 1373 mm (54.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Front track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1596 mm (62.83 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 650i Steptronic is the N62B48 engine, a 4.8-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine, a member of BMW’s N62 family, features aluminum alloy construction, double overhead camshafts (DOHC) per cylinder bank, and four valves per cylinder. The N62 engine was known for its smooth power delivery and distinctive exhaust note. Fuel is delivered via a multi-port fuel injection system, and the engine boasts a compression ratio of 10.5:1. The engine produces 367 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 490 Nm (361 lb-ft) of torque at 3400 rpm. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel-drive configuration contribute to the car’s balanced handling characteristics.
Paired with the N62B48 is a six-speed automatic transmission, marketed by BMW as “Steptronic.” This transmission offers both fully automatic operation and a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to exert more control over gear selection. The Steptronic transmission was designed to provide smooth and responsive shifts, complementing the V8 engine’s power delivery. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for a balance of acceleration and cruising efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 650i Steptronic delivers a refined and powerful driving experience. The naturally aspirated V8 provides strong acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 5.2 seconds. While not as overtly aggressive as some turbocharged competitors, the 650i offers a more linear and predictable power delivery. The Steptronic transmission shifts smoothly, although it may not be as quick or engaging as some dual-clutch transmissions found in later models. The car’s weight (approximately 3627 lbs) is noticeable, but the well-tuned suspension and precise steering contribute to confident handling. Compared to the 630i, the 650i offers a significantly more potent driving experience, with substantially more power and torque available throughout the rev range.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 650i Steptronic came standard with a comprehensive list of features, reflecting its position as the range-topping model. Standard equipment included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and xenon headlights. Optional extras included features such as active steering, sport seats, a navigation system, and a panoramic sunroof. Interior trim options allowed buyers to personalize the cabin to their preferences. The dashboard layout is driver-focused, with intuitive controls and a high-quality finish.
Chassis & Braking
The E63 6 Series features an independent suspension system, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This suspension configuration provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The 650i is equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The car’s chassis is designed to provide rigidity and minimize body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 650i Steptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, refined ride, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers noted the car’s relatively high weight and fuel consumption. Compared to the 630i, the 650i offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. The 650i competed with other grand tourers such as the Mercedes-Benz CL-Class and the Porsche 911. Fuel economy, while adequate for a V8-powered coupe, was not a strong point, with combined fuel consumption around 21.2 US mpg.
Legacy
The BMW E63 650i Steptronic remains a desirable grand tourer for enthusiasts. The N62B48 engine, while known for some cooling system vulnerabilities (requiring diligent maintenance of the cooling system), is generally considered reliable when properly maintained. The Steptronic transmission is also relatively robust. Today, well-maintained examples of the 650i can be found on the used car market, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and style. The E63 generation 6 Series helped to re-establish BMW’s presence in the luxury coupe segment, paving the way for subsequent generations of the 6 Series.
